Methods, Systems, and Apparatus for Sample Illumination

Abstract

Disclosed are methods and apparatus adapted to aid in an illumination of a test sample in a test vessel. The method includes sequencing multiple wavelength light sources by turning OFF all but the light source of interest and taking a reading. The illumination apparatus has a bracket with a first and second arms and a space between them adapted to receive a test vessel, an array of light sources and a lens array coupled to the first arm, an array of bandpass filters adapted to filter light signals from each light source, at least one aperture array adapted to limit an extent of light emitted to the test vessel, and a single photo detector coupled to the second arm adapted to receive light signals from each of the light sources without moving the test vessel. Systems are disclosed, as are other aspects.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to methods, systems and apparatus adapted to illuminate biological fluid samples.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]In medical testing, the detection of photoluminescence or absorbance may be used as a mechanism to determine a characteristic of a sample of a biological fluid (otherwise referred to as “specimens” or “samples”). For example, in some automated testing systems (e.g., clinical analyzers) reaction vessels, such as cuvettes, flow through vessels, sample cups, vials, and the like, may receive samples (e.g., plasma) possibly containing one or more reagents (referred to herein as a “test sample”). The test sample in the test vessel may be provided in an illumination assembly. A light source may be projected through the test sample, and the light emanating from the test sample is detected by a photodetector. However, such systems may require the use of a reference detector to enable obtaining a reference value. ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for illuminating a test sample. The method involves using a plurality of controllable light sources with different emission center wavelengths, a test vessel, and a constant current to each light source. The method includes repeatedly turning off one light source and observing the changes in light signals through the test sample until all wavelength bands of interest are obtained. The apparatus includes an illumination bracket with an array of light sources, lenses, bandpass filters, an array of apertures, and a single detector. These improvements enable more efficient and effective sample illumination.

Problems solved by technology

Moreover, such systems may suffer from instability during use due to temperature variations of the light source.

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